How to prepare for a video visit about Asthma (Mild Exacerbation)

Audience: pediatric

If your child has mild asthma symptoms that seem worse than usual, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help guide care safely from home. Mild asthma exacerbations often cause coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath but usually respond well to quick-relief inhalers. During the video visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medication use, and any triggers. You may be asked to show how your child is breathing or use a peak flow meter if available. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and medications can make the appointment smoother. Remember, if your child’s breathing worsens or they have severe symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. Telemedicine can help manage mild asthma flare-ups but is not a substitute for urgent in-person evaluation when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty speaking or walking due to breathlessness — seek emergency care immediately.
• Lips, face, or nails turn blue or gray — call emergency services right away.
• No improvement or worsening symptoms after using quick-relief inhaler — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild asthma symptoms and guidance on medication use.
• Review and reinforcement of asthma action plans.
• Education on inhaler technique and symptom monitoring.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe asthma attacks requiring immediate emergency care.
• Need for physical examination that cannot be done via video (e.g., lung auscultation).
• Administration of emergency treatments or oxygen therapy.

What to expect during the video visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's current symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulty. They may also inquire about recent triggers, medication use, and any previous asthma history. You might be asked to show your child's breathing effort on camera or use a peak flow meter if you have one. The provider will discuss treatment options and when to seek further care.

How to prepare for the video visit

Before the appointment, gather your child's asthma medications, including inhalers and spacers. Have a list of symptoms, their duration, and any recent changes ready. If your child uses a peak flow meter, measure and note the readings. Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection for the video call. Make sure your child is calm and comfortable.

Common treatments for mild asthma exacerbations

Mild asthma flare-ups often improve with quick-relief inhalers (bronchodilators) such as albuterol. The provider may review how to use these inhalers correctly and discuss adjusting medication if needed. Sometimes, a short course of oral corticosteroids may be recommended. Follow the provider’s instructions carefully.

When to seek emergency care

If your child has any of the following, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately:

These signs require urgent in-person care.

Tips for managing asthma at home

Keep your child’s asthma action plan handy and follow it closely. Avoid known triggers like smoke, strong odors, or allergens. Encourage your child to rest and stay hydrated. Monitor symptoms daily and use peak flow readings if recommended. Regularly clean inhalers and spacers to ensure proper medication delivery.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Gather all asthma medications, including inhalers and spacers.
• Prepare a list of current symptoms and their duration.
• Have your child’s peak flow meter available if used.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for the video call.
• Ensure your child is calm and ready for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions given by the provider.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and peak flow readings as advised.
• Keep the asthma action plan accessible and update it if needed.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

What is a mild asthma exacerbation?

A mild asthma exacerbation is a temporary worsening of asthma symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath that usually improves with quick-relief inhalers and does not cause severe breathing difficulty.

Can I use telemedicine for all asthma problems?

Telemedicine is helpful for mild asthma symptoms and routine follow-up but cannot replace emergency care for severe attacks or physical exams that require in-person evaluation.

How do I know if my child needs emergency care?

If your child has trouble speaking or walking due to breathlessness, blue or gray lips or face, severe chest tightness, or no improvement after using inhalers, seek emergency care immediately.

What should I have ready for the video visit?

Have your child's medications, symptom notes, and peak flow meter (if used) ready. Also, find a quiet place with good internet and ensure your child is calm.

How can I help my child use an inhaler correctly?

Your healthcare provider can guide you during the video visit on proper inhaler technique, including using a spacer if available, to make sure your child gets the full dose of medicine.

Sources

1. Asthma — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Asthma Care Quick Reference: Diagnosing and Managing Asthma — National Asthma Education and Prevention Program, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
3. Asthma — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Asthma in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is educational and not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned, seek emergency care immediately.